Ozark Running Game Too Much for Republic

Ozark’s misdirection offense gashed through the Republic defense for 449 rushing yards Friday, on the way to a 27-14 win. Sophomore Cody Lindsey ran for 171 yards on just 15 carries to lead Ozark. Willy Gray added 121 rushing yards. Nine players had positive rushing yards for Ozark on the night.

Despite being outgained by more than two-to-one in the first half, Republic kept the game close. Ozark scored first on a six-yard touchdown run by Gray late in the 1st quarter. They scored again with about four minutes left in the half to take a 13-0 lead.

Republic answered two minutes later. A 27-yard run by Jacob Cooper cut the lead to 13-7. (See video.) Republic’s defense stopped an Ozark drive as time expired in the 2nd quarter.

But Ozark scored on its first possession of the 2nd half, when Seth Wheeler broke off a 54-yard run on a 4th-and-1 play at midfield. A touchdown run by Will Nabors pushed the lead to 27-7 with 5:48 remaining in the game.

Republic’s only other score came on the next drive. Camry Cowan completed a 16-yard touchdown pass to Jalen Metsch to cut the lead to 27-14, accounting for the final margin. (See video.)

Republic’s offense struggled for much of the night. Jacob Cooper ended up with 93 rushing yards on only seven carries. Ryan Sifferman carried the ball 13 times for 45 yards. Jacie Austin rushed for 31 yards on 14 carries.

Republic falls to 1-4. Ozark is 2-2.

REPMO DIGEST

Choose your teams. Check your inbox. Sign up now for our brand-new customized newsletter.